"Blue Lobster"

"Blue Lobster" was created using a photographic process called cyanotype which is known for its cyan-blue color. The cyanotype was invented in England in 1842 by Sir John Herschel who, along with William Henry Fox Talbot, is credited with the invention of photography.

A cyanotype is made by coating a surface - in this case, cloth- with light sensitive chemicals compromised of Ferric Ammonium Oxalate and exposing it to a UV light source. The areas that are covered remain white, while the areas exposed to light turn blue. I made the "negatives" of the lobstermen's names and their boats by printing onto an acetate sheet rather than regular paper with an inkjet printer. The fish and bugs were made with a photo-copier using acetate in place of paper. The acetate negatives were placed on the coated cloth, exposed to UV light and then the cloth was rinsed in water and dried to make it permanent.

This lobster is a tribute to all the lobstermen whose hard work makes it possible for us to enjoy this local treasure. Thanks.

Sponsor: Rockport National Bank

Artist: Pam Hawkes

Summer 2004 Location: Rockport National Bank, 16 Main Street, Rockport

Lobster # 25

Winning Bid Amount $8,500.00